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Charity event a hole in one

The Altona City Rotary Club will be holding its 20th Annual Charity Golf Day. Charles Montebello warms up at the Kooringal Golf Club.

The Altona City Rotary Club will hold its 20th Annual Charity Golf Day, with charity Very Special Kids being the major beneficiary. The Altona City Charity Golf day has so far donated $118,300 to the charity, which helps about 850 families across Victoria who have a child with a life-threatening condition. Golf committee chairman Charlie Montebello said Very Special Kids has been the event’s major beneficiary for the past 11 years, after the Rotary Club did a tour of the charity’s main offices and hospice in Malvern, which he said ‘hit a soft spot’. The charity day will be held at Kooringal Golf Club on February 25, with golfers of all abilities encouraged to attend. “Last year we had 104 [players], which is 26 teams of four and we tee off just after 12pm,” he said. “Then after the game, [at] six o’clock we sit down and we put dinner on for the players and also … [give] prizes to the winners. [We] have a few auctions and raffles, so we’re always looking for donations from local companies.” Those interested in getting involved or donating any prizes should contact Mr Montebello on 0412257723.

West Footscray booms The real estate market is booming in the west, with West Footscray’s median house price skyrocketing by almost 26 per cent in the three months to December. Data from the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) has revealed that the median house price in West Footscray rose by $240,000 between September and December to reach $1.18 million. Nicholas Scott Real Estate director Nicholas

Skapoulas said this rise is “purely because of the low supply”. “So it’s a supply and demand issue. There’s quite high demand and very little supply,” he said. However Mr Skapoulas said the area appeals to those who wish to live within a 10 kilometer radius of the city, as it’s an affordable option with access to all the amenities. “There’s so much to offer, like West Footscray train station … anything around

that pocket is just incredible,” he said. “The house size, the demographic, the style, because they’re older period homes. When you compare it to any other inner city suburbs on the other side of the bridge, within the same radius, it’s double, so it makes sense. “You get a lot of value for money.” Young families are going to continue to be the key demographic driving the popularity of the areas, Mr Skapoulas said. “I think it’s going to continue to be strong

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… for young families moving into the area or young couples looking to start a family. “Young professionals have probably been renting on the other side of town, South Melbourne and South Yarra, Clifton Hills, Richmond, St Kilda, [they’re] sick of paying rent and they want to start owning a [place] of their own.” Neighbouring suburb Kingsville also experienced a jump in median house prices, increasing by 22 per cent between September and December to reach $1.44 million.

12530893-AV02-22

By Molly Magennis

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Citynews M A R I B Y R N O N G

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

OUT AND ABOUT

We are lucky to have a highly engaged community in the City of Maribyrnong – a community that takes the time to make their voice heard on issues that matter most to them. We have seen this with the engagement on how Council should approach 26 January, ‘Australia Day’, a conversation that kicked off last November with the delivery of a ‘reply paid’ feedback postcard to 38,000 letterboxes and an online feedback form on our consultation platform Your City Your Voice. Questions on 26 January were also included in our recent Annual Community Satisfaction Survey. All told, we have now received about 3,500 comments, with the majority who have shared their views wanting to see the experience of First Nations peoples recognised. This includes support for lowering the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags. We had resolved earlier last year to lower both flags in 2022, and last Wednesday, my fellow Councillors joined me at the Footscray Town Hall as we lowered them to half-mast for the first time on 26 January. While acknowledging for some people, this day is cause for celebration, we were able to also acknowledge the past mistreatment and profound grief, suffering and loss that colonisation and dispossession had and continues to have on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Mayor Cr Anthony Tran was joined by fellow Councillors – Cr Michael Clarke, Cr Cuc Lam, Cr Jorge Jorquera, and Cr Bernadette Thomas – on 26 January as they lowered the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags to half-mast

There is no denying this is a complex topic, but it is extremely encouraging to see our community approaching it with such empathy and understanding. Regardless of the viewpoints expressed, I want to acknowledge the respect demonstrated in the language and tone of the comments, both directly to Council and via our social media. The community can be proud of the way we have conducted ourselves on such a complex matter such as 26 January.

Please note: The appropriate COVIDSafe practices were followed at the time the photos were taken.

In broad terms, the vast majority of those people who have shared their views believe Council should acknowledge the experience of First Nations people on 26 January, and that we should take a lead from First Nations on how such an acknowledgement should look. This is an important ﬁrst step. But there is a lot more still for us to discuss, both with our First Nations peoples and our wider community, before decisions are made. Recognising 26 January as both a day of mourning and sorrow for some, and a national day to celebrate for others, this is not something we intend to rush. Thank you to everyone who has shared their feedback so far.

FEBRUARY COUNCIL MEETINGS Tuesday 15 6.30pm Council Meeting Tuesday 22 6.30pm City Development Delegated Committee Meetings are livestreamed via Council’s YouTube channel and community members can submit questions for public question time online by 12pm on the day of the meeting.

Mayor Cr Anthony Tran

Visit maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/meetings or phone 9688 0200 for more information.

Maribyrnong City Council Street Address: 61 Napier Street, Footscray, VIC 3011

P: (03) 9688 0200 F: (03) 9687 7793

Postal Address: PO Box 58, West Footscray, VIC 3012

email@maribyrnong.vic.gov.au www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au

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56% of Maribyrnong’s 5-11 year olds have already stepped up to get the vax. To find your nearest GP or Pharmacist to get your next dose please visit https://covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/booking/

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VU staggers return to campus By Molly Magennis Victoria University has announced it will stagger students’ return to on-campus learning in 2022. Victoria University Polytechnic, the university’s TAFE division, welcomed about 5000 students to begin their practical training and assessments at nine campuses this week, with their attendance will be spaced out across the days of the week. Victoria University’s 2022 orientation and other student based activities are set to begin

from February 8, where more than 4500 new first year higher education students will have the opportunity to celebrate the start of the academic year. Between February and April, the quantity of on-campus courses at VU and VU Polytechnic will increase steadily. After eight weeks, the university expects the majority of its courses and activities across all campus will be held in-person and on-campus. VU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker said the aim of the staggered approach was to maximise personal and

academic support for all students, while also maintaining COVID safety protocols. “We have already run successful, COVID-safe classes for hundreds of Higher Education students over summer that included practical, on-campus activities.” If the public health situation in Victoria was to worsen, Professor Shoemaker said the university will be ready to switch back to online learning. “We understand nothing beats being on campus, and that students and staff are eager to return to campus. We can’t wait to have

Brush up on art slowly at festival Simpson Myers says that reconnecting with the community has been an enjoyable part of organising an arts festival in Wyndham. Myers is the grants and funding officer of RedWest, a cooperative for creatives and artists in the west. RedWest is hosting WHERE IN WYNDHAM: A Slow Festival of the Arts, which will run until March 31. The festival has been supported with a grant from Wyndham council. Myers, who lives in the Hobsons Bay municipality, is also a painter, illustrator and hand-embroiderer. She said the idea for the slow festival came about because of the uncertainty around COVID-19. Myers said the festival aimed to be “COVID resilient” and give the public plenty of time to see artworks across different locations, both indoors and outdoors. In addition to festival events and exhibitions, the WHERE IN WYNDHAM website also lists permanent artworks across the municipality. Myers described organising the festival as “a really wonderful process” that has allowed RedWest to re-connect with many community members following the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. “It has been a whole new project for us to approach as a committee and it’s on a bigger scale than we have done before,” she said. Myers said the festival was open to all artists in the west, but was focused on celebrating places within Wyndham. As part of the festival, several artworks are being exhibited at venues such as cafes and pubs - Hopheads in Point Cook has three artworks in its window. “We are more looking for venues in particular, there is still a lot of artist’s work we would love to display for the rest of the festival across February and March,” Myers said. She said RedWest has installation artists, who do lighting and sculpture, who were keen

them back, but we need to ensure we open safely and carefully, and with minimal risk for future disruption,” he said. “We have already contacted Western Health offering to host pop-up vaccination sites for third COVID-19 booster shots for students, staff and the wider community, and we will continue to run our annual influenza vaccine hubs for staff.” “At the same time, student preferences and staff views will be canvassed in February and March to ensure that the highest standards of safety are maintained,” he said.

Help with detoxing your environment Hobsons Bay Council will be holding a ’Detox your Home event’ for residents to safely dispose of their everyday household chemicals. The event, funded by Sustainability Victoria, will be held in Altona at the Hobsons Bay City Council Operations Centre on February 12 between 9am and 1pm. Residents will be able to get rid of everyday household chemicals free of charge, which are unable be placed in kerbside bins or poured down sinks. Household chemicals can include weedkiller, pesticides, cleaning chemicals, fire extinguishers, cosmetics, cooking oil and turpentine. The event will be staffed by expert chemists who can identify and sort the chemicals for safe transport back to a facility in Melbourne where they are processed for reuse or safe disposal. If they cannot be reused in any way, they are safely disposed of. ’Detox your Home’ events are now drive-through and contactless, and roof of vaccination or eligible exemption is a condition of entry. Registrations are essential. Details: https://www.hobsonsbay. vic.gov.au/Services/Waste-Recycling/ D e t o x- y o u r - H o m e - A l t o n a -1 2 February-2022

Artist Simpson Myers.

(Supplied/Jill Velinos)

to install works in outdoor spaces. In addition, Myers said RedWest wanted to encourage people to support the local businesses displaying artworks. As well, Wyndham council’s Saltwater Art Studio in Point Cook is hosting 12 workshops during the festival, with bookings required

online via eventbrite.com. “The workshops include a range of different artists, so there is something for everyone,” Myers said. Details: https://whereinwyndham.com.au Alesha Capone

Smile Squad is on its way The Victorian Government is making it easier for our kids to get the dental care they need. Find out more at smilesquad.vic.gov.au

Wednesday, 2 February, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 3

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School’s a family affair While a child’s first day of school is always exciting for any parent, for Sebastian Caviedes, it’s even more so considering the long family connection he and his family has with St Margaret’s in Maribyrnong. Not only did Mr Caviedes attend the primary school where his son will start prep this year, but both his mother and grandmother were cleaners at the school for many years. “My grandma was cleaning the school and then she got a bit older, and then my mom started cleaning the school,” Mr Caviedes said. “Then I went to school there [and] my mom was still the cleaner. Mum took a couple of years off maybe three or four years ago … to look after my grandmother when she was sick.”

Mr Caviedes’ mother has now brought the cleaning businesses back to the school after being asked by principal Gavin Brennan if she wanted to return. Mr Brennan said having children of past students attend the school is a great endorsement of it’s community. “Many members of the extended family have been associated with the school as students or even as staff. Sebastian’s auntie worked as a Learning Support Officer,” he said. “We are very excited to have the third generation of this family joining our community for their learning journey.” Molly Magennis

Sebastian Caviedes with his children, wife and mother on his son’s first day of school at St Margaret’s. (Supplied)

Police detect 15 driving offences

Hannah Maskell and Anna Farago’s new exhibition is called ‘Crossovers’.

(Supplied)

A crossover of artworks By Molly Magennis A new exhibition exploring colour in the face of a pandemic is showing at Five Walls art gallery in Footscray. ‘Crossovers’ was created by Seddon local Hannah Maskell and Anna Farago, who also has strong family ties in the west. The two have known each other for quite some time with Farago being Maskell’s former art teacher. The exhibition was conceptualised in 2020, when both artists were discussing the demands of family life, and how to navigate an art practice amongst their domestic responsibilities.

“Then in 2021, it kind of felt like a good thing to gravitate back to, to meditate on,” Maskell said. “Not make work that was you know, overtly political or you know, explicitly about what was happening, but was still quite cathartic and therapeutic and important to kind of make your brain play with color.” “The need for producing work based on colours felt quite heightened, especially in 2020 when everything was so full on.” While the two didn’t actively collaborate, the similarities between the pieces of work created by both artists were an inspiration for the exhibition’s title. “That’s why we call the show crossovers,

because there are plenty of crossovers in our lives … there’s plenty of crossovers in our work,” Maskell said. “And then crossovers more literally because a lot of the shapes and lines in our work actually cross over each other.” Maskell said she’s been really pleased with how the exhibition has been received so far. “Opening was really well received with a lot more people coming than I thought, and I realized that’s because it’s local, and so many people live around here. I think people are just excited that exhibitions are happening again.” ‘Crossovers’ is open to the public until February 5.

Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology has helped police detect four unauthorised drivers in Hobsons Bay during an Australia Day road safety blitz. Operation Amity, which ran over two days, saw police using ANPR technology fitted to highway patrol vehicles to detect disqualified, suspended and unlicensed drivers, as well as those driving unregistered vehicles. As well as the four disqualified drivers that were detected in Hobsons bay, police also detected five unregistered vehicles. One vehicle was impounded. Two drunk drivers and two drug affected drivers were also detected during this time. One speeding offence was issued. There were no detections recorded in Maribyrnong over the two days. A total of 2838 offences were detected in Victoria during the operation, including 1117 speeding offences, 114 mobile phone offences, 92 drunk driving offences and 70 drug affected driving offences. Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said it had been a busy end to the peak holiday season. “Disappointingly, we continue to detect a significant number of motorists flouting the road rules and putting other’s lives at risk – with almost 3000 offences detected in just two days,” he said. “Police patrols have increased on Victorian roads since the end of lockdowns, so motorists should expect to see more police, more often this year. With school resuming next week and more people returning to work now is not the time to be complacent behind the wheel.” Molly Magennis

Action group backs calls for electric truck incentives The Maribyrnong Truck Action Group (MTAG) has supported calls to incentivise the use of electric zero-emission trucks. The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) collaborated on a new report, outlining a series of policies necessary to support the switch to electric trucks from diesel-powered ones. The ATA’s report called for electric trucks to be exempt from urban curfews, incentive

payments to reduce the cost of installing charging infrastructure at depots and incentive payments to reduce the upfront purchase price of an electric truck. The MATG was formed back in 2005 out of concern about the negative effects of the growing number of trucks present throughout Maribyrnong. MATG president Martin Wurt said the group supported the report and that there needs to be government incentives to help

4 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 2 February, 2022

with the changeover. “We definitely think that moving away from diesel and fossil fuels is the answer in the city of Maribyrnong,” he said. “We’ve got some of the highest asthma rates, some of the highest stroke rates and most of those can be directly related back to truck movements.” “We definitely think the federal government should be doing something. I mean, they seem to wipe their hands of pollution stuff … and

leave it up to the state.” Mr Wurt said the government’s dismissal of these issues shows a lack of commitment to tackling climate change. “[If] the government is going to be moving towards 2050, zero emissions targets and things like that, we’ve got to start somewhere. Certainly, cleaning up dirty old diesel trucks is a great place to start.” Molly Magennis

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School speed zones in force

Western Crusaders Grid Iron Club’s Hayden Brown, mayor Anthony Tran and Footscray Rugby Union Club’s Charlie Sale. (Supplied)

Construction under way By Molly Magennis Construction of a $5.9 million multipurpose community pavilion at Henry Turner South Reserve is under way. The new pavilion will be able to support the needs of the many local community and sporting clubs that call the reserve home, such as the Footscray Rugby Union Club in winter, and the Western Crusaders Gridiron Club and the Footscray Edgewater Cricket Club in summer. Construction is due to be completed by early 2023, with the new modern facility set to be equipped with unisex facilities, with access for people of all abilities.

The pavilion will feature a new, large multipurpose social space, a meeting room, commercial kitchen and four large change rooms with gender neutral amenities. Footscray Rugby Union Club’s Thomas Gulliver said the redevelopment of the pavilion will bring the clubs that use it up to the standard of other local clubs in the area. “We’re really looking forward to the long awaited redevelopment of the pavilion, it’s sure to bring our club – and the other clubs that call the Reserve home – up to a standard that matches the local competitions we compete in,” he said. “The new facilities and amenities will help support our strong senior competition, and

enhance and encourage the growth and development of our junior competition, which is growing substantially each year.” The Footscray Rugby Union Club happens to be the oldest sporting club at the reserve, and the pavilion’s completion will fall on the club’s 95th anniversary in the precinct in 2023. Maribyrnong mayor Anthony Tran said the new pavilion is a key part enhancing the sporting community in the area. “I look forward to watching the new pavilion come to life over the next twelve months, and I am sure the local clubs and visitors to the area will appreciate and enjoy the new facilities in the years to come.”

Sent – 15th Feb

Sent – 23rd Feb

Getting there.

Glad I’m back!

Eliza (work) – 1st Feb

Eliza (work) – 20th Feb

How are you?

See you soon.

As young Victorians return to the classroom this week, school speed zones have also resumed, with the Department of Transport urging drivers in Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay to take extra care on the roads. A statement from the department said drivers need to be patient and expect an increase in road, bicycle and pedestrian traffic at drop-off and pick-up times. While some school speed zones are permanent, others operate from 8am to 9.30am, and from 2.30pm to 4pm on weekdays, with reduced speeds of 40km/h or 60km/h in school zones until the end of the school term. “School speed zones are designed to keep pedestrians safe by lowering the speed limit at peak times when children are travelling to and from school. Regardless of whether a school is open or closed, all sign-posted 40km/h zones will still apply,” the department said. School bus services are set to operate as normal, with priority being given to providing drivers for school buses. However the department has warned there is still a risk of staff shortages caused by COVID-19 which could result in changes and cancellations to school bus services. The department said parents of children who are going to be using bus services should talk to them about COVID safe practices. “Parents of children using bus services are encouraged to talk to their children about practicing good hand hygiene, social distancing where they can, and respecting the clearance zone around bus drivers.”

The sooner you get in touch after an injury, the better the return to work journey. If you’re recovering from a psychological or physical workplace injury, or if you are an employer supporting an injured worker, make contact as soon as possible. It just takes a few simple words to make a big difference. The sooner, the better. worksafe.vic.gov.au/thesoonerthebetter

Wednesday, 2 February, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 5

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Footballers from all backgrounds will join forces for the Nations Footy Cup this month. Nations Footy Cup (NFC) is an international competition based in Melbourne giving everyone the opportunity to come together and represent different countries around the world in AFL. This year there will be 12 teams across the men’s and women’s competition. Co-founder Beejay Johnson said they were excited about the event and the level of football that will be on show. “This year we will have the men’s competition during the day and the women’s competition at night,” she said. “We’ve got an extra bunch of teams and there’s a good calibre of coaches and players across the competition.” The men’s competition will consist of nine teams. Among those involved is, Westmeadows coach Mo Kaakour who will coach Team Lebanon and Richmond AFL premiership player Noah Bolta will coach Team Croatia. In the women’s, former AFLW assistant Shannon McFerran will coach Team World and Ron Sikora will be hoping to go back-to-back with Team Australia. The competition, which is in its second year, has also secured three key sponsors, including Winsher Sports which is on a mission to provide top quality leather Australian rules footballs at a low and affordable price. Teams will play for the Winsher Nations Footy Cup.

Briefs Summer series Baby Snakes Bar in Footscray will be providing live music and great food in Chambers Street off the Nicholson Street Mall. The laneway will be turned into a family-friendly space with live DJs and acoustic sessions. Food will be catered by the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and will be available onsite. Every beer sale will go towards supporting the ASRC. The event will take place on Saturdays at 8pm, from January 29 to March 12.

Council services expand Hobsons Bay is making it easier for locals to access council services and speak to council officers. Council will add general customer service to all of library branches, with a trial already running at the Altona North branch. Altona Meadows and Williamstown will be the next branches to welcome customer service officers.

Team New Zealand’s Cooper Ellis, Team World’s Kaitlyn O’Keefe and Team Fiji’s Rusi Komaitai. (supplied)

The event will be held on February 20 at La Trobe University in Bundoora. Details: https://www.facebook.com/ nationsfootycup/.

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Ideas aim to stop elder abuse By Alesha Capone More resources are needed to help prevent elder abuse, including against senior citizens from migrant and refugee backgrounds, according to two organisations based in Melbourne’s north and west. Both AMES Australia and cohealth have made submissions to a state governmentappointed committee that is conducting an inquiry on support for older Victorians from culturally diverse backgrounds. A report from the committee is due to be

tabled in Parliament during June 2022. AMES – which is located in suburbs including Werribee, Melton and St Albans – provides services to migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. In a submission to the inquiry committee, AMES chief executive Catherine Scarth wrote that “staff frequently encounter older migrant and refugee women who face verbal abuse, neglect, disrespect and financial exploitation”. “Without high-level English language skills, many older Victorians are more vulnerable to elder abuse,” the statement read.

The submission stated that basic levels of financial literacy in English might be enough to prevent many cases of financial elder abuse. To help combat elder abuse, AMES recommended that education providers should recognise the needs of older Victorians to acquire core skills that mitigate the likelihood of exploitation; improved translation services and access to financial literacy materials in different languages; and awareness campaigns to inform older migrants and refugees of their rights. cohealth, a not-for-profit community health

service that works across the north and west of Melbourne, also highlighted elder abuse as an issue. The cohealth inquiry submission read: “Elder abuse is a serious problem across the community but is compounded for older people who are reliant on family members due to language and cultural expectations.” The submission stated that service providers need to be alert for the signs of elder abuse. For assistance, contact Seniors Rights Victoria on 1300 368 821 or visit https:// seniorsrights.org.au/

Bulldogs provide a fun space after school The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation held a free activity day on January 28 to launch its after-school program. The event was also held as a celebration of the last day of the school holidays. The Braybrook Community Hub After School Program is run by the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation in conjunction with the City of Maribyrnong. The program is free and will run each Wednesday of the school term for young people aged 12 to 16 to try out new activities and meet new people. The program will commence on February 2 from 4pm to 6pm, with activities ranging from learning how to cook, playing a variety of sports and making music and art. Western Bulldogs Community Foundation youth development co-ordinator Hannah

Singleton said: “We arecreally excited to be providing an inclusive, safe and fun space for young people to come and hang out, socialise and try some new activities. “Each week there will be something different to do, we’re really passionate about ensuring not only a fun experience but a place where young people can learn something new in an easy going environment.” Molly Magennis

Kids will get the chance to learn how to cook at the after school program. (Supplied)

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading the Sunbury Line, allowing bigger, more modern trains to run on the line. We’re also removing 85 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 56 already gone. Buses replace trains in both directions

Werribee Line

Williamstown Line

8.45pm to last train each night, 15 to 17 Feb North Melbourne to Sunshine 8.30pm to last train each night, 28 Feb to 2 Mar 12.45am 19 Feb to last train 20 Feb 8.30pm 21 Feb to 8.30pm 23 Feb First train to 8.30pm, 24 Feb

Sunshine to Sunbury

8.30pm to last train, 23 Feb 8.30pm 24 Feb to last train 27 Feb

North Melbourne to Sunbury

8.30pm 18 Feb to 3am 19 Feb

Newport to Werribee

3am to last train 19 Feb First train to 8pm each day, 20 to 23 Feb

Laverton to Werribee

8pm to last train each night, 20 to 23 Feb

North Melbourne to Werribee

8.30pm 18 Feb to 8pm 20 Feb

Newport to Williamstown

8pm to last train each night, 20 to 23 Feb

North Melbourne to Williamstown

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

1494

Sunbury Line

Wednesday, 2 February, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 7

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Photo captures just another day By Molly Magennis An Altona Meadows photographer has had one of her photos selected to be part of an international virtual exhibition showcasing images taken during the past year of the pandemic. Christina Hardcastle’s photograph ‘Just Another Day’, was selected to be included in an exhibit of 39 photographs from around the world, hosted by Documentary Family Photographers Worldwide (DFP). As a member of the DFP, Hardcastle submitted three of her own photos for the exhibition and was chuffed when one of hers got chosen. “They had three jurors to pick all the photographs and they’re like leading photographers in our industry. It’s pretty amazing to be selected by these amazing, amazing photographers,” Hardcastle said. The candid image depicting her husband and daughter was taken completely organically during the last lockdown, she said. “It totally just happened. I actually took that on my iPhone. It was just like, I was walking by and just [thought] ‘oh my gosh I have to get this’,” she said. “My husband actually had no idea that I took that photo, he was actually dozing off.” Hardcastle said she loves capturing real and honest moments that depict family life. “You can look back on the photos and see, that’s the funny thing that my kid did back then … I can feel how it felt.” The exhibit will be available for viewing online until March 6. Details: https://www.dfp-gallery.com/

‘Just Another Day’, has been selected to feature in an exhibition showcasing images taken in 2021. (Christina Hardcastle)

Since swim classes were cancelled, Andi practises floating in the bathtub. (Christina Hardcastle)

Everyone wants to go for a walk. Again.

(Christina

Hardcastle)

Stuck inside on a bad weather day.

(Christina

Hardcastle)

After daycares AND playgrounds were closed, we bought a lot of play equipment for our backyard. Lots of time spent on the swing. (Christina Hardcastle)

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Champion for women By Goya Dmytryshchak

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A Williamstown woman who has received an Australia Day honour for significant service to women with ovarian cancer has recalled her own diagnosis, which brought heartbreak but also gratitude. Paula Benson, who formerly chaired Ovarian Cancer Australia, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of 34 in 2003. “I know I am one of the very lucky ones because my GP did all the right things for me,” Ms Benson said. “When I went to her, I had this unexplained abdominal bloating, changes in my urinary and bowel habits and I felt really full after eating not very much.

‘‘

still so much more to do and we can’t rest until it’s done - Paula Benson

’’

“She sent me straight off that morning for a transvaginal ultrasound and she got me in to see a gynaecological oncologist that night and I had the surgery the next week. “No one thought that I would have ovarian cancer because I was young, I was 34 – largely, it’s women in their 50s, 60s, 70s who are diagnosed – and I have no history of ovarian or breast cancer in my family. “So, no one suspected that it could be ovarian cancer; they could see that I had a large cyst attached to one of my ovaries and that the ovary was damaged and that the cyst and the ovary would need to be removed. “When I woke up, my gyne-oncologist told me that she was very sorry but she’d found ovarian cancer and had to undertake a radical hysterectomy. “It was very shocking for a young woman to have that experience but I know my cancer was diagnosed early, it hadn’t spread and I know how lucky I am.” Ms Benson said she knew her story was not typical for most women with ovarian cancer, which prompted her to offer her services to Ovarian Cancer Australia in 2006. The same year, she and spouse Stephen Conroy, a former Labor senator, had baby girl 12459042-CG36-20

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8 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 2 February, 2022

Champion for women

Paula Benson. (Joe Mastroianni). 226296_02

Isabella with the help of a surrogate mother and a separate egg donor. “I do have a beautiful daughter,” Ms Benson said. “She’s 14 now. “I was very fortunate. One of my girlfriends donated eggs and another girlfriend carried her for me, so I’m very lucky to be a mum.” On learning of her Australia Day recognition, Ms Benson said she hoped it would raise more awareness of ovarian cancer. “When I first found out about it I felt quite

emotional really thinking about everything that we at Ovarian Cancer Australia have achieved over the past decade,” she said. “But I was just reflecting today, the same week that I found out about potentially receiving the award, I heard about another friend of mine who’s just been diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer and it was very grounding. “We’ve achieved so much, we’ve done so much and I’m so proud of that but there is still so much more to do and we can’t rest until it’s

done.” Ovarian Cancer Australia said under Ms Benson’s stewardship the organisation had achieved significant milestones, including developing and implementing Australia’s first national action plan for ovarian cancer research, securing $3 million federal funding for the Traceback ovarian cancer prevention program and the commitment of $20 million for ovarian cancer research from the federal government’s Medical Research Future Fund.

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Tips to help keep your car and property safe Senior Sergeant Amanda Bowden, Footscray West Police Station The latest crime statistics show there were 744 burglary offences in the Maribyrnong area in the year ending September 2021, which is a 5 per cent increase from the previous year. More than half of these offences (51 per cent) are made up by ‘creep in burglaries’, which occur when the offender enters the home via an unlocked door or window, often when the homeowner is present. In most cases, thieves sneak in and out of property unseen, and as quickly as possible to avoid being caught or confronted. Whilst it is important to note the incidence of this type of crime is relatively uncommon, for victims this can be a traumatic and distressing experience. Since many new cars cannot be started without their keys, some offenders have resorted to committing burglaries with the motivation of obtaining keys to steal a car. Thieves may seize an opportunity to sneak in and look for car keys and other easy items to steal, especially if they are left on display. Data shows that in 95 per cent of aggravated burglaries involving car keys there is no contact between the occupant and offender. Opportunistic thieves will scan the perimeter of a property, looking for signals or physical signs that the property is vulnerable. Footscray Police recommends some small steps you can take to help prevent becoming a victim of this type of crime. These include: - Installing good quality locks on doors and windows. Consider installing CCTV cameras and motion sensor lighting;

(Copyright Victoria Police 2016)

- Lock all windows and doors, even when you’re at home – unlocked side and rear doors are the most common entry points for burglars; - Remove valuable items from plain sight – particularly car keys, wallets, electronic devices and cash. On top of our day-to-day policing and investigating of offences, Victoria Police is

10 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 2 February, 2022

also working closely with the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC) and Griffith University to understand the evidence and research around offender behaviour. If you see any suspicious activity, report it immediately to police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Man arrested following brawl in Altona North Police have arrested a man following a brawl in Altona North on Wednesday, January 26. Police were called to a shopping centre on Millers Road after reports a man was armed with a machete about 9.30pm. The man allegedly rammed the victim’s car after a road rage incident, before confronting him with a machete and damaging his car. The man then allegedly chased the victim through a carpark before the victim could get in his car and escape. The 31-year-old Mount Duneed man was arrested inside a nearby supermarket and was charged with assault, conduct endangering serious injury, assaults and weapons offences. He was bailed to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on August 15. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that could assist police with their investigation is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au. Molly Magennis

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Nappy waste on council agenda By Molly Magennis Maribyrnong has teamed up with 11 other councils to support a joint study to understand how to develop and implement a reusable nappy program. The feasibility study aims to identify which reusable nappy programs councils might consider to help them reduce waste sent to landfill by increasing the use of reusable products. Approximately two billion disposable nappies end up in landfill each year in

Australia, each of which take about 500 years to break down. Across Maribyrnong, on average, nappies make up around 10 per cent of waste to landfill in kerbside bins. In houses that have children in nappies, they make up around half of the waste in their kerbside bins. The results of the study will help inform recommendations on a nappy program that will best achieve waste reduction, assist and support families, and create the basis for behaviour change. The study includes a survey, open until

Thursday, February 24, where residents will be able to share their experience and thoughts on nappy use. There is also the opportunity for residents to take part in follow up interviews and participate in focus groups. Mayor Anthony Tran encouraged locals to share their thoughts. “We know our community are environmentally conscious and want to limit their environmental impact where they can, and this study is an important first step in understanding behaviours and habits to inform a program that will make it easier

for families to make day-to-day sustainable choices,” he said. The study helps meet council’s commitment to avoiding nappy waste and promoting alternatives, outlined in the Towards Zero Waste Strategy 2019-2030. Other municipalities participating in the study include Bayside City Council, Glen Eira City Council, City of Greater Dandenong and Moonee Valley City Council. Details: https://www.yourcityyourvoice. com.au/reusablenappies

Alyssa Liberatore had a ball at the Australian Open. (Supplied)

Youngster is on the ball

Sue Kim Lim with her husband and two children.

(Supplied)

‘It’s my home now’ says new Aussie Altona North’s Sue Kim Lim was among more than 16,000 people across the country who officially became Australian citizens on January 26. Originally born in Malaysia, Sue has spent the last 11 years in Australia after initially coming here to study. She said applying for citizenship was something she had wanted to do for a long time now. “It is something that I guess I planned to do for a while now. At some point, I already knew that I wanted to apply for citizenship because

Australia is the place that I want to live in permanently and it’s my home now.” Although Sue has only lived in Hobsons Bay for a short amount of time, she said she’s really come to love the community and all it has to offer. “Both of [my] children were born in this home, so I really call Hobsons Bay my home,” she said. “It’s an area that I’m familiar with, I feel a sense of belonging here.” As for Australia, it’s the culture and the people she loves the most.

“I feel like I identify more with the culture here now that I’ve lived here for a number of years,” Sue said. “This is the lifestyle that I love. And I feel that Australian people are very kind, very compassionate, they’re very generous and polite.” “It’s very easy to love Australian people and the culture here.” Molly Magennis

Generous mum named citizen of the year Seaholme mum Kate De Marco has been named as Hobsons Bay’s Citizen of the Year. Ms De Marco received the award during a ceremony on Australia Day. Tahlia Kotiau, 24, was named Young Citizen of the Year. Ms De Marco was awarded the honour for establishing a community pantry in her driveway to allow those in need access to food and other staple items. During the ceremony, Ms De Marco said she felt ‘totally overwhelmed’ to have received the award. “In accepting this award, I wish to acknowledge all those people who have contributed to my crazy ideas and who have got on board to help realise those dreams,” she said.

“This wonderful community that I belong to has created opportunities to flourish, and for that I am so deeply grateful.” Ms Kotiau was recognised for spearheading a number of initiatives to support students experiencing disadvantage, such as providing free frozen meals for students and local staff in need in partnership with Laverton Community Integrated Services. “This is the greatest honour of my life so far,” Ms Kotiau said. “I love everything about my community, I grew up in Altona and there’s definitely something to say about the way it really is home to me.” Molly Magennis

Kate De Marco and Tahlia Kotiau.

The Australian Open has been serving up fun for a Maribrynong local, who landed a spot as a ballgirl in the tournament. Alyssa Liberatore is one of 400 youngsters, out of an initial 8000, who were chosen in the final round to be a ball kid for the 2022 Australian Open. As a first year ball kid, Alyssa said she was really ecstatic when she got chosen after the selection period. “[I was] really excited because I’ve never done anything like that before,” she said. So far, Alyssa’s had the chance to share the court with many amazing tennis players, including a former Aussie US Open champion. “I did Alexei Popyrin … and then I also did a doubles with Sam Stosur,” she said. “I’ve [also] done a few more international players.” Alyssa said being in the spotlight in front of so many people can be a bit stressful. “A few days ago I was on Kia Arena, it was really nerve-racking,” she said. “[People] everywhere screaming and sometimes you’re on TV … you don’t want to make a mistake.” The 14-year-old said throughout the tournament, she’s not only been able to develop her skills, but also make a lot of new friends. “My skills have really picked up, like my ball rolling and everything throughout the tournament’s progression. But yeah, I’ve made a lot of new friends because you get stuck with a group of six people for the whole day,” Alyssa has enjoyed the whole experience so much that she’s already put in her application to be a ball kid again in 2023. Molly Magennis

(Supplied) Wednesday, 2 February, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 11

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MY PLACE Hobsons Bay resident David Colquhoun has always had a gift and passion for writing. After returning home to Australia, he finally put pen to paper and published his own children’s books. He speaks to Molly Magennis about his books, and the special messages and morals behind them. What is your connection to the western suburbs? I’ve lived [in East Altona] all my life. I have moved out but I keep coming back, I’m like a homing pigeon. What do you love most about the area? It’s friendly, great facilities. You know, the transport, buses, trains, got a little shopping centre, the circle shopping centre. Parks, gyms, swimming pools. It’s got all the conveniences. Is there anything about the area you would change, or you think needs improvement? The young hoons in their cars, if they could tame that a bit. It is an issue. Tell me about your children’s books and why you first started writing them … Well, I’ve always wanted to write and I’ve been told I should write. And I always thought it would be with adult fiction. I always like poetry, soul, literature, good literature. But I’ve never done anything substantial with it. But I did get a poem published once, and I used to help a friend with his songwriting, help him finish the song for him. But the last five years, I moved to Thailand to do a TESOL certificate, teaching English to speakers of another language. But I had to come back because of health reasons … and COVID had arrived. Upon arrival, not long after entering the house, coming back home, these children stories just came to me so I wrote them down. I read them to my sister and my nephew ... and a couple of other people and they said ‘they’re good stories, do you want to consider publishing?’. What are the books about? After rereading it I realised that it was an autobiography. It’s about an ostrich who wants to fly. Obviously ostriches can’t fly, so he goes through the frustration of trying to fly and the other animals are laughing at him and telling him he’s not suited for flying. He says ‘I’ll show them, I’m going to keep trying’. And circumstances arise where his natural talent

David Colquhoun is the author of two children’s books. (Damjan Janevski) 264679_01

comes out, his running ability. He becomes a bit of a bit of a hero overnight. He doesn’t want to fly anymore, he accepts himself just for who he is. And you’ve written a second book too? Yeah, the second book, it’s called ‘Blue ant, red ant and green ant’. I don’t know how this story

came to me, but it’s actually taught me a lot … it gives a simple explanation of where racism comes from. How has the response been to your books so far? [After] my first book came out, [Hobsons

Bay] libraries bought it. Willianstown craft markets has accepted me, so I’ve been there a couple of times, it’s good, I feel well received by the people there. The last market I sold 19 of [my books].

FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

February 2, 1982 The problem of youth unemployment in the West will be highlighted at an ‘All Nations Day’ in the Footscray Park on Sunday.

February 5, 1992 Up to 50,000 people are expected at Footscray Park this weekend, for the annual two-day Vietnamese New Year Tet Festival.

January 30, 2002 A Maribyrnong Detention Centre detainee has not eaten since last Monday week in support of detainees at the Woomera centre.

February 1, 2012 Double lives. Creative types with real day jobs.

12 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 2 February, 2022

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Australian stage and screen legend Margot Knight. (Pictures: Ben Andrews)

BEHIND THE NEWS

Margot rehearsing for Death of a Salesman at fortyfivedownstairs.

Actress shares her prison break Williamstown resident Margot Knight has done it all, from starring in iconic Australian TV shows to acting alongside Kate Winslet on the big screen. Although you wouldn’t know it, she’s as humble as ever, as Molly Magennis discovered.

escribed as an ‘Australian stage and screen legend’, Margot Knight has resided in the maritime town for close to 28 years and has deep roots within the community, with her daughters going to school in the area. Margot said it’s the water that has kept her in Williamstown all these years. “We’ve got the water so close, and all the parks. It’s a great suburb.” Margot has been an actress for 43 years. Her career started on the small screen, picking up comedy roles in TV shows here and there. In 1980 however, Prisoner came along, giving Margot her big break. Prisoner ran from 1979 to 1986 and followed the lives of the prisoners, officers and other prison staff in the fictional Wentworth Detention Centre in Melbourne. The show has acquired cult classic status, and even spurred on a contemporary reimagining, Wentworth, which aired on Foxtel. Margot had two stints on the show, first in 1980 playing inmate Sharon Gilmour and then again in 1985 playing junior prison officer Terri Malone. Not only was Margot one of the few actresses to play both an inmate and an officer on the show, but both her characters were notable for being the show’s main lesbian love interest at the time. On her experience working on Prisoner, Margot said she deeply enjoyed the strong female characters portrayed in the show, and the dramatic storylines that ensued. “Oh, God, I loved it. It was a show with an all female cast, the odd bloke was in there, popped in from time to time, but you know, I mean, [it’s] set in a female prison. “The power relations, the power struggles within the prison, the emotional journeys, the ups and downs, the heartbreaks, all of the things that people go through in life and

they’re going through much of it, you know, in a confined environment, and in a prison where they have no choice but to be together. “So you know, it’s a melting pot … brings out conflict, which of course is the juicy stuff.” The actress would then go on to again play two different roles in the most iconic Australian drama of them all – Neighbours. She first made her appearance in 1986 and then again over a decade later in 1997. In 1996, she made what would be the first of multiple appearances in police drama Blue Heelers. The opportunity to work alongside Kate Winslet came about when Margot landed the role of Mrs Wood in the 2015 film The Dressmaker. The Dressmaker was filmed in Melbourne and across parts of regional Victoria, and

featured other big name actors like Liam Hemsworth, Rebecca Gibney, Judy Davis and Hugo Weaving. The film had its world premier at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival and was the recipient of five AACTA awards. Margot auditioned for the role as she had read the book it was based on, and thought it was a lovely story. She said working on the set of the film was a wonderful experience, and that director Jocelyn Morehouse was fabulous to work with. “[I was] working with a lovely group of people and Kate Winslet I can tell you is a lovely person, really lovely person,” Margot said. “It’s always nice to know that isn’t it? [She was] very, very, very easy. It was good fun.”

This February Margot will return to the stage in her newest project, Arthur Miller’s famous Death of a Salesman. She will be playing Linda Loman, wife of Willy, the titular salesman and one of the play’s main characters. Of the classic American screenplay, Margot said it’s ‘incredibly relevant’ despite the fact that it was written in the 1940’s. “[Arthur Miller] has a lot to say in this play, which is why it’s so timeless,” she said. “There’s a lot to say about the cost, the human cost of investing in the dream of success and the American dream and what ultimately breaks this particular family, who were very invested in that. “I think it’s a very timely play to be staging at the moment. It’s incredibly relevant to our lives and I think audiences will be absolutely enthralled by the story, the drama within it. At times it’s absolutely heartbreaking, at times it’s funny, it’s tough, it challenges your thinking.” While the production has managed to get through the current Omicron outbreak mostly unscathed, bar a couple of cast members contracting the virus during the rehearsal period, Margot said that support for the arts industry is more important than ever before, and that audiences shouldn’t be afraid to see live theatre. “We really need an audience and I know that people have COVID related concerns, but it is a very, very, very properly managed venue and COVID safe practices will all apply.” “I personally am just absolutely hungry to go and see plays and to see theatre. “There’s nothing like the live experience of human beings out there in front of you.” Death of a Salesman will run from February 3-27. Tickets range from $40-$55, and can be booked via: https://fortyfivedownstairs.com/ event/death-of-a-salesman/

Wednesday, 2 February, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 13

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

over 55 years of age and would like to meet new people, come along. ■ Frank, 0423 392 884

Charity golf day The Altona City Rotary Club will be holding its 20th Annual Charity Golf Day on the 25th February 2022. Very Special Kids will be the major beneficiary. Donations and sponsorships for the event are welcome. ■ Charlie on 0412257723 or charles.montebello@bigpond.com

Hanging Rock night walks Let the scent of eucalypt and the calls of native wildlife captivate you on a night time walk at Hanging Rock. The walks are suitable for all ages, but spaces are limited and booking is essential. The ticket price is $25 per adult or $12 per child for two sessions running on Friday, February 18 and Friday, March 25. ■ 5422 0387

Anzac day at Newport RSL Newport RSL Sub-Branch is looking for expressions of interest from community groups who wish to participate in the 2022 Anzac Day Commemoration Services. They seek expressions of interest from groups such as choral groups or technical groups (eg. with the ability to portray laser images to buildings) to enhance the event. Williamstown is set to have an Anzac Day Dawn Service from 5:30am and Newport is set to host an Anzac Day Commemoration service from 1pm. ■ newportrsl@gmail.com

Keilor probus The Keilor Combined Probus Club is back in business following the lockdowns. The group meets the third Monday of every month at Keilor Pub. New members are welcome. ■ Steve, 0408 193 793, or Keith, 0409 494 801.

Women’s Day

Knitting Group Anyone is welcome to come along to Yarraville or Footscray library for a weekly knitting group. Registrations are recommended via Eventbrite. ■ www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/library/ Events/Knitting-Group

Williamstown Craft Market Commonwealth Reserve comes alive on the third Sunday of the month with the Williamstown Craft Market. The market boasts over 50 stalls showcasing everything from handmade craft, homegrown produce and food vendors. There will also be live music. The market takes place from 10am-4pm. ■ www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Williamstown-Craft-Market

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of young Eli, 7, and Ezekiel, 4, as they look ahead to the Lunar Festival, by Damjan Janevski. 265500

Women’s group Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. Visitors welcome. ■ Pam, 0418 347 691or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Mouth organ band The Yarraville Mouth Organ Band meets Friday evenings at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. Great music, friendly atmosphere. New members, players or beginners welcome. ■ Heather, 9399 2190

Conversation Cafe The Conversation Cafe is back on at Footscray and Braybrook Library! It gives people the chance to meet new people and practice English conversation skills in a relaxed and friendly environment. ■ www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/library/ Events/Conversation-Cafe

Diabetes support group The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

Heritage walks Enjoy a leisurely two-hour walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. ■ John, 0418 377 336\

Singing group Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre on the first and third Tuesday of each month. ■ Sue, 0400 082 413

Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576 The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

Mahjong group

Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport. ■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au

Interested in learning to play Mahjong? U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. ■ u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

The Altona North combined probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. ■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

Rotary club Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson

Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119 or 0400 052 857 ■

International Women’s Day The Women’s Support Network will be launched at an International Women’s Day event in Brimbank on Tuesday, March 9 . All women are welcome to attend. Registration essential. ■ wsn.org.au The Sunshine Lunar New Year Festival is on February 6 in the Sunshine Shopping precinct along Hampshire Road, between noon and 9pm. ■ https://www.sunshinebusiness.com.au/

Taylors Lakes Football Club is seeking male and female players for all age groups from under-8s to under-18.5s. To be eligible, children need to be born between July 1, 2003, and April 30, 2015. ■ Julie, 0409 259 389

Rotary club

Deer Park probus

The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 7pm. ■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

The Deer Park Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at The Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, from 10am. New members and visitors are welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580

Sunbury Combined Probus Club The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am. Visitors and new Members are welcome. ■ Carmel 0416 477 271.

Toastmasters Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall. ■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Garden club Melton Men’s Probus Club The Melton Men’s Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. New members and visitors are most welcome. ■ 9746 0271

The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Senior citizens club Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park Meets Wednesdays from 10am-noon at Maddingley Park, corner of Grant and Taverner streets, Bacchus Marsh, to maintain two beautiful rose gardens. New volunteers are always welcome – with or without experience.

14 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 2 February, 2022

Duke Street Community Centre is setting up a women’s social group to give people a place to interact. The group will run every second Friday, as a way to connect with other women in the community in a safe, fun and social way. It will be developed to suit the needs of the participants and will be in a casual setting.The group will meet at the centre at 1pm. ■ 9311 9973

Football Lunar New Year

Zonta club meets

Musicians welcome

Altona North combined probus

The Women’s Support Network will be launched at an International Women’s Day event in Brimbank on March 8. All women are welcome to attend. ■ wsn.org.au

Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens’ Club on Mondays and Fridays, from 10am-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. A variety of activities offered – carpet bowls, cards, snooker, darts, board games or just a cup of coffee and a chat. Lunch subsidised. If you’re

Female cricket Keilor Park Cricket Club is looking for players to join its female cricket team. The club, which has had success in recent years plays in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association on Sundays. ■ http://ow.ly/kLiz50Hsqqj

Quilt-In Wyndham Patchworkers is holding its 25th anniversary Quilt-In on February 12 at St James the Apostle Catholic Church Hall, 336 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing from 10am to 3.30pm, with Veronique Diligent as guest speaker. The day will include a raffle, door prizes, show and tell and four local traders. Due to COVID-19 requirements there will be no door sales, so all attendees must pre-book via www. trybooking.com. Tickets: $15 including morning/afternoon tea. BYO lunch. Proof of vaccination status or medical exemption required. ■ Donna Morris, 0417 268 887

AL-ANON meets AL-ANON provides support for families and loved ones living with alcoholics and problem drinkers. It meets Mondays at St Thomas Anglican Church foyer, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee, 7.30pm.

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EDUCATION

Back to school tips and tricks Getting the kids ready for starting school or moving up a year can be daunting after the long summer holidays but a little bit of forward planning can help you and your kids sail smoothly and calmly into the new school year. Here, Jennifer Shipway, school teacher, mum of six and owner of popular Instagram site, ‘Where Learning Meets Play’, shares her top tips to guide you: 1. Make a list – carefully make a list of all the items recommended by the school that you don’t already have. If you keep the list with you, it’s easy to pick a few items up as you are shopping for other things so it’s less overwhelming. Buy extra stationery and keep it in an easily accessible basket, so there are always items on hand when you need them. 2. Start early – purchase necessary items early as leaving shopping to the last minute may mean shoe sizes are unavailable or the raincoat you need is challenging to find. The night before school, pack extra clothes. Include socks and underwear, just in case – you never know! 3. Set the scene – read books about starting school, in a casual way, giving your child a chance to ask questions if they want to. Reading books together every day is a great way to encourage early literacy skills. 4. Dress rehearsal – depending on how old they are, encourage your child to dress themselves in the months leading up to school. Ensure you have their uniforms ready to go well in advance in case of emergency or disaster (rips, tears, hungry dogs). Practice packing a healthy, simple lunch together with minimal packagine. 5. Label everything – every single thing! Every. Thing. Even socks and inside shoes. Choose a good permanent marker. Keep one in a drawer in the kitchen so you can label new items and drink bottles after they

Mum and primary school teacher Jennifer Shipway has great tips for helping your kids get ready for school.

have been washed. 6. Shop wisely – make sure you buy a lunch box and drink bottle that are easy to clean. It’s important that your kids can easily operate these themselves and the drink bottle doesn’t spill easily.

7. Sleep routine – as the holiday comes to a close, make sure there is a calm and predictable bedtime routine in place, as kids will be extra tired once they start school. Jennifer Shipway has more than 20 years of experience as a primary school teacher, and

(iStock)

is a mum of six children aged from four to 17. She runs a popular Instagram page, ‘Where Learning Meets Play’ , which has over 248,000 followers. For more information on stationery, pens and resources, visit: www. pilotpen.com.au.

Williamstown High School Congratulations to the students from the class of 2021 on achieving outstanding VCE results. School Dux: Julian McIntyre (99.95) 35 students achieved a 90+ ATAR: Julian McIntyre Sara Coladonato Tamas Simonds Jacob Faranda Dion Boyle Caitlin Munro Elena Turner Madeleine Harrison-Shore Dan Presley Laura Tuttobene Nazariy Suberliak Andrew King

Bjorn Boukamp Cole Webb Ruby Glynn Samiha Haider Jessica Wedding Lily Shaw Jade Pedler Cameron Palin Michael Campelj Alyssa Macris Alisha Kattar Khanh Duy Nguyen

Fatima Amreen Meg McClelland Liam Berryman Ciara Wilson Damian Iosifidis Ethan Rankin Lorimer Humphries Emma Greilach Leah Tamvakis Oscar Lidgerwood Max Nguyen

92 students achieved 40+ Study Scores.

Bayview Campus (Years 7 to 9) Bayview Street Williamstown 3016 Phone: 9399 9228 www.willihigh.vic.edu.au

3 students achieved a perfect score of 50 in an individual subject: Music Investigation: Julian McIntyre English: Caitlin Munro & Michael Campelj

School Council, Principals and staff at Williamstown High School wish all our 2021 graduates well in their future studies and careers.

12530871-BL04-22

Pasco Campus (Years 10 to VCE) Pasco Street Williamstown 3016 Phone: 9397 1899

Wednesday, 2 February, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 15

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Spectacular waterfront residence with rooftop terrace 1/24 Esplanade, Williamstown MORTAGEE IN POSSESSION SALE! A unique waterfront residence of the finest quality, this state-of-the-art, impressively proportioned 3 bedroom executive home combines a commitment to home technology with spectacular views that overlooks Port Phillip Bay and the Botanical Gardens, plus just a moments walk from the Williamstown Beach. Txt 1ESP24 to 0488 207 207 for a price guide and open times.

Scan for more Info.

Auction 12 noon Saturday 12th February Gerard Hannan 0412 214 843 Steele Sexton 0403 557 711

12531407-DL04-22

16 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 2 February, 2022

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2A 2B 2C D

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SECTION

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Just Listed 2A 1B 1C

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raywhiteseddon.com.au Wednesday, 2 February, 2022 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY 17

PUZZLES No. 066

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

easy

1 8 5 2 4 3

5 2 1 7 7 2

9 9 4 6 2

5 1 8 5 9 2

3 9

8 medium

3 2 5 8

9 7 4 9 1

QUICK CROSSWORD Sibling (6) One-storey house (8) Belonging to them (5) Maryland city (9) Lassoed (5) Painting of the countryside (9) Water-rich vegetable (9) Innumerable (6) Female name (6) Hushed words (8) Common greeting question (3,3,3) Make a speech (5) Brief statements (9) Florida city (5) Claptrap (8) Steal (6)

13 15 16 18 23 24 26 27 28 29

Area of hilly land (6) Deny (7) Doppelganger (4-5) Time for leisure (7) Beauty and the Beast heroine (5) Female cleaner (9) US president (1963–69) (7) Recount (7) Periods of 60 minutes (5) He might have a carrot for a nose (7) From Stockholm, say (7) Song’s words (6) Separated (5)

5 6 7 8 10

ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11 12

No. 066

14 16 17 19 20 21 22 25

DOWN Characterised by satire (7) Slumber (5) Domain of an earl (7)

1 2 3

DECODER

No. 066

6 8 7 5

1 5 4

4 9 3

3 6 6 4

5 7

2 hard

6 4 8 2

5 6 3 4 1 2

10 11 12 13

5 LETTERS ALONE APART AVERT AWARE AWOKE BERET BLAME BLEAT BUTTE CHASE DARES EARNS EDGED EDGES EGGED ELOPE ENTER FORGE GALLS HASTE

Today’s Aim: 5 words: Good 7 words: Very good

A V

4 LETTERS BASE BUSS EBBS EGOS HERS HUTS ISLE LETS MITE MOST PALE PREY USES UTES

No. 066

HEART HELLO IDEAL LARGE LEAFY LEDGE LEPER MOIST MUTTS PACTS PESTS RADAR RAWER REEDS REPEL ROUGE SAUTE SEEDS SKITE SLEDS SMUTS

SPORT STEAL STRUT TENET TEPEE TESTS USING VIGIL WORTH 6 LETTERS CONFER OODLES REHASH RESIST

7 LETTERS CAPSULE GURGLED OUSTING REALEST RUSTICS STIMULI 8 LETTERS EMBARKED NAMELESS SERENADE TREATISE

adit, AFFIDAVIT, aida, avid, daft, data, davit, diva, fiat, vita

No. 066 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

E D Y

8 4 1 3 7 6 5 2 9

9 3 6 4 5 2 8 1 7

2 5 7 1 8 9 3 6 4

5 9 2 7 1 3 6 4 8

4 6 3 5 9 8 1 7 2

7 1 8 2 6 4 9 3 5

4 6 8 1 2 9 3 5 7

2 9 5 6 7 3 4 8 1

9 4 2 7 3 5 8 1 6

8 3 1 4 9 6 5 7 2

6 5 7 2 8 1 9 4 3

5 7 6 3 1 8 2 9 4

3 2 9 5 4 7 1 6 8

1 8 4 9 6 2 7 3 5

5 4 2 6 1 3 8 7 9

7 8 1 2 9 5 4 6 3

4 7 5 1 2 9 3 8 6

8 2 6 3 7 4 9 5 1

1 9 3 5 8 6 7 2 4

9 5 4 8 6 2 1 3 7

6 3 7 4 5 1 2 9 8

2 1 8 9 3 7 6 4 5

E V E R

18 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 2 February, 2022

P A N D A A G A I N W R I N G

QUICK QUIZ

Shannen Doherty stars in which TV show rebooted in 2019?

What is the ninth circle of hell in Dante’s Inferno?

In what years were the Salem witch trials?

All Saints’ Day occurs the day after what?

How old was Joan of Arc when she participated in the Battle of Orleans?

The Pyramid of Cheops is another name for which famous landmark?

What is the Amanita phalloides, the mushroom that accounts for the most fatal poisonings in the world, more commonly known as?

In the Harry Potter series, Viktor Krum attended which wizarding school?

For what category did Idina Menzel (pictured) receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?

1 7 9 6 4 5 2 8 3

3 8 4 9 2 1 7 5 6

3 6 9 7 4 8 5 1 2

04-02-22

7 1 3 8 5 4 6 2 9

6 2 5 8 3 7 4 9 1

I E

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9-LETTER WORD

10 words: Excellent

hard

medium

3 LETTERS ACE AGE ALL APE ART ASS BUT CHI EEL EKE ELM FOG GAS GET ICE INN ION LAG LSD ODE RED TEA TEE USE

C P S U L H I O Z Q E WM

easy

2 3 9

D T

5x5

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

8 6

4 3 9 6

A R N Y X B G J K V F D T

WORDFIT

10 What production company produced The Wizard of Oz? ANSWERS: 1. Beverly Hills 90210 2. 1692-1693 3. Halloween 4. The Great Pyramid of Giza 5. Durmstrang Institute 6. Live theatre/performance 7. Treachery 8. 17 9. Death Cap 10. Metro-GoldwynMayer

SUDOKU

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9398 5005

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0418 546 808 G6210923

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3 Standard Rooms for $99 inc GST

1152992-LB36-14

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Specialising in quality kitchen facelifts Re-laminating existing bench tops & doors New cabinets-Kitchen, Laundry, Bathroom

s Plain Concrete s Coloured Concrete s Slate impression s Stencil

"We do all the small jobs that the bigger companies don't have time for" Up to 60 square metres Shed floors, paths, driveways etc. Coloured, plain, slate and stencil. FREE MEASURE & QUOTE Workmanship guaranteed, with over 30 years experience

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30 years experience

AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES

SMALL SMALL CONCRETING CONCRETING JOBS JOBS

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Andrew 0425 852 621 12412038-FA09-10 V Cabinet Makers

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AFFORDABLE CONCRETE PAVING

772 304

HOPPERS CROSSING LANDSCAPING Ì Landscaped Gardens Ì Brick & Cobblestone Paving Ì Brick Edging Ì Synthetic Turf ÌTrees Lopped & Felled Ì Drip Systems

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AA CABINETS

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12519309-CG44-21

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ALL AROUND

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Lic. No. 28635

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identiﬁcation number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiﬁcation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

ACE TUTORING SOLUTIONS Maths & English, all levels up to VCE. Phone: 0432 514 326.

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12424562-SN33-19

12504269-BL30-21

Call 0434 525 311

G6133636AA-dc2Jul

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Based in West Footscray, ACC Higgins is Australia’s leading coffin and casket manufacturer. We require an individual looking to start a career or further develop their skills in manufacturing. We would like to offer an opportunity to someone who holds a strong desire to learn from and/or work with our experienced team. With employment you will join one of our departments in Wood Machining, Solid Timber Assembly, Sanding or Polishing. The successful applicant will not necessarily have experience in any of these fields, although if you have a skills in and/or would like to work in one of these specific fields, then please inform us. In return ACC Higgins offers secure employment, above award wages and bonuses. Some overtime hours will be required from time to time. Please forward your CV to Matthew Breen at matthewb@acchiggins.com.au or call after 9am on 03 9689 3299 to apply.

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Phone only between

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The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

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Outlander is not all as it seems By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Mitsubishi’s Outlander is back, bigger and boofier than ever – but all is not quite as it seems because the latest Outlander hides a Nissan X-Trail, the first time the Japanese brand has released a badge-engineered car. By the same token, it has just as much in common with the Renault Koleos, which also shares the same platform. It’s all a reflection of the fact Mitsubishi is part of the NissanRenault-Mitsubishi Alliance and has been for a long time, although it rarely gets a mention. Outlander is priced from $34,490 plus on-roads. Our test vehicle, the Exceed, sits second from top and is priced from $47,990 plus on-roads. Styling For two grand more, Exceed Touring adds two-tone paint and interior trim, along with massage for driver and front passenger seats. LS and above models get three rows of seating as standard. The cabin has an upmarket look and feel, with its quilted leather seat trim, piano black console surround and quilting on the doors too. The car is slightly longer than its predecessor, but more importantly wider and taller with a 36mm longer wheelbase that translates to more interior space -- especially more rear legroom. But the third row is still extremely cramped and suitable only for small children (how many times have I written those words). At the same time, the second-row slides forward to provide more room. The tall, skinny, third row headrests look like Easter Island statues, but fortunately can be stowed under floor when not required. Second row passengers also get their own air outlets as well as sun blinds for the side windows. There’s plenty of eye candy too, with a digital instrument cluster and attractively styled free-standing touchscreen that’s super responsive to the touch. But the instrument panel looks a little busy. It’s not apparent from the photos, but that’s the way it feels. The Japanese love a good acronym, especially when it comes to describing the technical features of cars. Although it’s no acronym, you might be interested to learn that Outlander was penned under the design language “I-Fu-Do-Do”. Don’t laugh. It may be lost in translation, but means “authentic and majestic” in Japanese, and shows in the Outlander’s bold proportions, muscular fenders and the chiselled lines of the “dynamic shield” radiator grille. Whatever, it looks pretty damn good, probably the best iteration yet of what we’ve come to think of as the ‘Decepticon’ look. Until recently, even top of the line Mitsubishis sometimes missed out on satellite navigation. Drivers were forced instead to rely on their mobile phones if they needed to find their way somewhere. But there appears to have been a change of thinking at Mitsubishi HQ, because all models now come with satellite navigation as standard. Standard kit includes dual zone climate control with rear air vents, front and rear parking sensors and traffic sign recognition -- as in speed limit warnings. Outlander ES and LS models also have 7.0-inch colour multi-information display as part of the instrument cluster. Aspire and above, however, gets a 12.3-inch full colour digital instrument cluster. By the time you get to Exceed, there’s leather, three-zone climate, 20-inch alloys, heated and cooled seats, 360 degree reversing camera, a panoramic sunroof and 10-speaker Bose audio. Additionally, a 10.8-inch full-colour head-up display is fitted to Aspire and above models. Infotainment A stylish, responsive 9.0-inch touchscreen is standard across the range. 10-speaker Bose audio with satellite navigation, DAB digital radio, AM/FM

Mitsubishi Outlander... looks aren’t everything but they help.

radio, Bluetooth with voice control and audio streaming, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android and wireless smartphone charging and 2 x USB ports. Engines/Transimissions Replacing the previous 2.0 and 2.4-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines, is a one-size fits all Nissan 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine that generates 135kW of power and 245Nm of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), with paddle shifts and Sport mode that provides access to eight pretend gears. The change lever itself feels more like a joystick, with a button for park. Two-wheel drive models get five drive modes, all-wheel drives get six. Safety Depending on trim level, safety includes Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) with MMC first application of cyclist detection and junction assist, Blind Spot Assist (BSA), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Automatic High Beam (AHB), and a Multi Around Monitor camera system with moving object detection.

Driving Power output is more than the 2.4 it replaces, but still somewhat average in the context of today’s sophisticated hybrid and turbocharged setups. But performance is adequate providing you don’t have high expectations. In fact, it’s about as middle of the road as it gets, not surprising considering the car’s target market. Straddling the medium to large segments in terms of size, the previous model attracted young and growing families on a limited budget. They were chasing size and price, and the Outlander nailed it. The new Outlander is a better looker, feels more upmarket and will have similar appeal. The last time we drove the Outlander Exceed it had a $42,990 price tag. But with prices from $5000 more, even for the entry ES model, it has lost some of its gloss. It could see buyers start to look elsewhere, because to these people $5000 is an awful lot of money. Drive-by-wire transmission combined with new CVT control logic is designed to deliver a feel more like a traditional auto and to some extent it does. It’s generally more responsive and better behaved than we remember, but still has a

tendency to become “zoomy” under load. It’s hard to describe, but you’ll know exactly what I mean when it happens. Steering is light and responsive, and the ride is very good considering the large 20-inch wheels and low-profile rubber. The re-engineered all-wheel drive system includes enhanced Active Yaw Control, now including rear wheel brake control for independent control of all four wheels, and the evolution of 4WD control with a new hydraulically activated direct coupling device for faster all-wheel response. Impressive but what we don’t like is the twitchiness that marks the system. It never really settles down, as the system continues to make tiny but frequent adjustments to maintain optimum traction -- and needs to be dialled back. With a 55-litre tank, it is rated at 8.1L/100km and takes standard 91 unleaded. The trip computer was showing 8.2L after just over 400km (the old one was good for 7.2L/100km). Standard warranty is five years or 100,000km, but if you get your vehicle serviced with Mitsubishi it’s an impressive 10 years or 200,000km. Summing Up Like the looks, less thrilled about the performance and the way it drives.

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United overjoyed to be back on the winners list Western United returned to the winners list with a second half goal from Steven Lustica enough to seal victory against Melbourne City in the A-League. Facing an undermanned City, who had six players on international duties, United was made to work hard for the points. Neither side could find the back of the net in the first half, before a minute of mayhem in the 71st minute gave United the lead. Alessandro Diamanti had a shot on penalty that missed, but he backed it up and his snap shot then sat up for Lustica to thump into the bottom right corner. That would be the difference in the 1-0 win. United coach John Aloisi said he was very proud of the playing group. “We knew it wasn’t going to be easy,” he said. “Everyone talks about how many players they had out … They are a side that has players who come in and know their structure really

well. “When we weren’t at our best we had to dig in and we fought and defended quite well, when we were playing and winning the ball in good areas, more so in the second half … We had a lot of good chances.” Aloisi said despite having a lot less of the ball than City, they knew that there would be chances and it was a matter of being able to convert. He said they were disappointed not to have scored a couple more goals. Aloisi was full of praise for Dylan Pierias who came on in the second half and made an instant impact. “We knew that we were going to use Dylan Pierias as we thought he could give us that impact and he did it straight away. “He gave us that impact. Running at players, getting in good positions and getting goal scoring opportunities. “We felt in the second half, we were starting

to get the game in our favour and Dylan gave us that extra lift.” The match was a special one for Nikolai Topor-Stanley who became the second player to play 350 A-League games. Aloisi said it was great to celebrate the match with a win. “He deserves it.” United will be back on the field on Tuesday night, after deadline, against Macarthur. Aloisi said they came away with no injuries from Saturday’s game, but expected to go deeper into their squad with a number of matches in a short period of time. For the result of Tuesday night’s match, go to www.starweekly.com.au Tara Murray Nikolai Topor-Stanley celebrates his 350th game. (supplied)

Western Jets tough trip to Tasmania

Nikolai Topor-Stanley.

(Supplied/Getty)

Veteran’s incredible run By Tara Murray The lure of another A-League men’s title keeps Western United’s Nikolai Topor-Stanley coming back for more. At the age of 36, Topor-Stanley could quite easily hang up the boots and focus on life after soccer. But speaking ahead of becoming just the second player to play 350 A-League games, Topor-Stanley said the fire in the belly was still there. “I believe this club is very ambitious since its going places,” he said of United which he joined this season “We’re writing our own history as we speak and that was attractive to me. This group of players and coaching staff are building fans and building infrastructure in terms of stadiums. “Once it’s done, it’s going to be something that changes sporting history in Australia. “I want to win championships.” The motivation that drives Topor-Stanley can easily be traced back to early in his career, when he considered giving away the game. He came through the youth ranks as the old National Soccer League collapsed.

With plenty of uncertainty over the future of soccer in the country, Topor-Stanley like many others were left in the lurch. “I would be lying to say I wasn’t considering other options,” he said. “We didn’t know if there was going to be a professional league and the opportunities were scarce. “It took me a few trials at different clubs and a few disappointments along the way. “I remember having a conversation with my mum. She kind of said you’ve gone too far to give it away when I was down in the dumps as a 20-year-old.” Since then he has played with Sydney, Perth Glory, Newcastle Jets, Western Sydney Wanderers and finally Western United. Throw in four Socceroos caps and a number of under-20 and under-23 matches, its been a career of a lot of highs. On field, Topor-Stanley said the highlight of his A-League career was the Asian Championships win with the Western Sydney Wanderers which he said put Australian soccer on the map. But it’s another memory which he treasures the most. “Walking out with my kids for the first

22 MARIBYRNONG & HOBSONS BAY STAR WEEKLY Wednesday, 2 February, 2022

time, I didn’t think I would experience those emotions,” he said. “Knowing they can watch me on tv and they can hopefully have some memories, that probably is the most special thing to me at the moment. “It’s nice to have some photos and memories.” While one could be forgiven for looking back on highlights and such a milestone, Topor-Stanley made it clear that a win against Melbourne City, was the most important thing. The match was after deadline. “It’s something I’m proud of and I’m hoping to share that with my family and kids on the weekend,” he said. “But there’s a game to win too. That’s the first and foremost thing on my mind.” The milestone is the first of possibly two big ones. Andrew Durante’s record is 357 games is not far away. Topor-Stanley isn’t focusing on that, just enjoying his soccer. “I’ve seen what it’s like not to be in football,” he said. “It’s the best job in the world. For all the hard work, it’s worth it in the end, it’s a privilege.”

The Western Jets started their NAB League Girls campaign on Saturday with a loss in Tasmania against Tasmania. The Devils were quick out of the blocks, with four first quarter goals. The Jets got on the board in the second quarter, but the margin was extended to five goals at the main break. The Devils continued to push the momentum in the third quarter to extend the margin. The Jets showed some fight and were able to win the final quarter. The Devils won 10.5 (65)-5.4 (34). Caitilin Sargent was the key target up forward with the Jets kicking four goals. Charlotte Baskaran got plenty of the ball, picking up 32 disposals. Stephanie Asciak had 18 possessions. The Jets this week face the Northern Knights on Saturday. The Knights lost to the Calder Cannons in their round two clash on Saturday. Both teams were searching for their first win heading into the match at Highgate Reserve, and it was the Cannons who jumped out of the blocks with three first quarter goals. The Knights responded with two goals to none in the second quarter to cut the margin to four points at the main break. The Cannons had the scoring end in the third quarter and were able to kick two goals despite the constant pressure from the Knights backline to bring the margin out to three goals at the last change. Despite a late surge by the Knights, the Cannons were able to get the win, 6.2 (38)-4.4 (28). Co-captain Olivia Manfre kicked two goals for the Cannons along with having 21 disposals. Fellow co-captain Reese Sutton had 22 possessions to lead the way for her side, with Tahlia Read and Abbey McDonald having 21 possessions each. Isabella Parnell kicked two goals for the Knights, while Ava Jordan had 21 possessions, to follow up the 27 she had in round one. The Cannons have a bye this week. Tara Murray

SPORT Altona Vikings hoping for uninterrupted season With the footy season fast approaching, the Altona Vikings senior men’s team is gearing up for what they hope will be an uninterrupted 2022 season. The team competes in division one of the WRFL and has returned to training early in preparation for the season. Unfortunately, like many sporting clubs, COVID has heavily impacted the teams start to year, affecting the motivation levels of some players, coach Corey McCall said. “The old COVID situation [is] wreaking havoc across the board, I’d say it’s happening to a lot of clubs,” he said. “We’ve got players that are seven day close contacts with family or wives and girlfriends and then we’ve got guys that have actually ended up catching COVID. “We’re just trying to be very resilient when it comes to training. You know, it has affected some of our players in terms of motivation

Elliot Cavallaro will make a return to the Vikings this season. (Damjan Janevski)

and playing going forward.” Despite this, McCall said the coaching group remains positive. “[We’re] very compassionate towards the guys and want them to get healthy so that

they can get back out there and train and get amongst their mates.” The Vikings have been lucky enough to secure a handful of new signings for 2022, including former Richmond and North Melbourne player Conor Menadue. “He’s an Altona junior, so it’s great for local footy to have players that are junior football players at your football club, come back and play senior football.,” McCall said. Elliot Cavallaro, a former Altona player who let to play country football in Shepparton has also made a return to the Vikings. “He’s coming back to play football with us this season, which is awesome. Once again Altona and the club culture, you notice a lot of guys try to take their wares somewhere else and end up coming back which is really good for us,” McCall said. “But essentially we want to grow a lot of our list from our juniors as well.”

Before the 2021 season was interrupted due to COVID, Altona was sitting on top of the ladder, with 10 wins and two losses. McCall said he would like to replicate the same direction the team was heading in last year. “We were in a really good spot,” he said. “Unfortunately, every pre-season that we’ve done throughout COVID has been a different type of pre-season due to players’ mental health and challenges that they’ve got with work and COVID etcetera, so we haven’t put any expectations on or anything like that. “It’s more that we just want to get everyone back together rather than have some players here, some players there.” The Vikings will begin playing practice games in March as they lead up to their round one match against St. Albans on April 2. Molly Magennis

Yarraville batsman Aidan Salvado.

(Mark

Wilson)

Mixed bag of results for west teams

Bonnie Toogood.

(Western Bulldogs/Meg Mullen)

Rusty Bulldogs fall to the Giants in the AFLW By Molly Magennis The Western Bulldogs’ made their return to the AFLW on Friday night, January 28, but could not compete against GWS who took home an easy win. Ater 20 days since their first opening round game, the Dogs’ 2.10 (22) to 7.1 (43) loss made it clear their setback had made them a little rusty. GWS came out firing and kicked two majors in the opening 10 minutes of the first quarter. The Dog’s attempted to respond, but fell short with Bonnie Toogood and Gemma Lagioia only managing to score behinds. Richelle Cranston did manage to get the Dog’s on the scoreboard towards the tail end of the first term, but they were still outscored by the Giants. Again GWS managed to kick two goals in the first 10 minutes of the second quarter, but this time the Dog’s struggled to get one of their own, and were let goalless heading into the main break.

The tables turned in the third quarter, with captain Ellie Blackburn hitting the scoreboard and GSW unable to find a goal, but it still wasn’t enough for the Bulldogs. The Giants lead managed to slip further away as they gained some momentum in the final term, taking home a 21 point win. Kirsty Lamb, who managed to notch up 18 disposals, said in a post-match interview on the Bulldogs’ website that the result was disappointing considering how hard the team worked to get the ball in their forward line. “Unfortunately it’s kind of our storyline at the moment that we just can’t seem to convert into goals, which is a little bit disappointing but I guess the positive out of it is that we’re getting the ball inside forward 50, we’ve just got to start to gel a little bit better as a mids and a forwards group and start converting some goals,” she said. The midfielder said the biggest take-away from the game was the quality of the Dog’s skill execution, particularly due to the extended time away from the game.

“We looked a bit rusty,” she said. “We looked like we haven’t played a game for a couple of weeks, so just our skill execution across the whole ground let us down.” “It was tough, I’m not gonna lie, it felt like we hadn’t played a game for a little while and just trying to suckin the air at times.” “You could tell on girls’ faces at times [that] they were a little bit cooked.” In a post-match press conference, coach Nathan Burke said the girls’ started very rushed and a bit on the back foot being three goals down at quarter time. “We started the way I feared we might start, ater being a bit rusty, but then we worked our way into the game… good enough to get a different result but we couldn’t capitalise,” he said. “We missed some goals that we shouldn’t have… so we never put scoreboard pressure on [the] Giants at all.” The Bulldog’s will take on Richmond this Saturday February 5 at Whitten Oval from 7:10pm.

Cricket in the west produced a mixed bag of results at the weekend, with many teams being washed out and unable to play. Footscray’s first XI were unable to play their Victorian Premier Cricket round 10 match against Melbourne University due to wet weather, but the second XI did take to the pitch and were able to bring home a win. Footscray made 9/244 with opener Nathan Caulfield scoring 42 with four fours. Abhishek Beniwal managed to produce 56 with four fours and one six. Malith Cooray, Harry Tonks and Jay Vine were the best of the bowlers with two wickets each. The team currently sits in fith place on the ladder, with six wins and three losses. Over in the Victorian Sub-District cricket association, Spotswood’s second XI was also the only side to get on the ground. They defeated Melton, making 115, with Jagger Skilbeck the best batsman and Jackson Wadden the best bowler. Altona’s first XI did manage to take to the pitch, and produced a win over Elsternwick. They made 164 with Zachariah Grundmann-Perera producing 49 runs with an impressive seven fours and two sixes. Despite the win, it was only Altona’s second of the season. The team still sits towards the bottom of the ladder, with seven losses to their name. Yarraville was defeated on home turf by Oakleigh, who made 6/171. Opening batsman Aidan Salvado was the best of the bunch, making 19 runs, while bowler Matthew Grose took three wickets. Molly Magennis

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